SNP MSP Dennis Robertson, whose teenage daughter died after struggling with anorexia nervosa, led his first member’s debate on raising awareness of eating disorders on 22 February 2012.
The Aberdeenshire West MSP’s daughter Caroline died last year from the illness at the age of 19.
In a speech universally described as courageous and moving by MSPs across the chamber, Mr Robertson called for greater awareness among GPs and medical professionals to enable sufferers to be diagnosed and treated earlier.
“Early signs are the ones we need to be aware of.
“People in the medical profession must become more aware.”
Mr Robertson explained that the National UK based charity, Beat , which is holding an eating disorders awareness week from 20 to 26 February 2012, approached him to help raise awareness.
He dedicated his speech to his daughter Caroline.
Public Health Minister Michael Matheson joined his fellow MSPs in praising Mr Robertson’s “immensely powerful and courageous speech” and thanked him for using his member’s debate to highlight such an important issue.
Mr Matheson said the motion rightly recognised the important work of Beat and the Scottish government very much welcomed the work they undertake.
He said the government would publish its new mental health strategy this summer which would impact on the services for people with eating disorders.
(Source: BBC)
